9.5.2021 Lone Mountain Rut Race Rescue


On Sunday September 5, 2021 at approximately 1:50 pm, Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue in Big Sky responded to a request for assistance from an individual that was running the “Rut Race” on Lone Mountain at Big Sky. One individual running in the event had fallen into rocks and sustained multiple injuries. The individual suffered lacerations and injuries to their head, body and legs.

Volunteers from Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue and Big Sky Ski Patrol responded with an ATV and specialized rescue sled and were able to treat the patient on scene before transporting off the mountain via “short haul” helicopter out of Bozeman to Big Sky Fire Station #2. The patient was transferred to the Big Sky Fire Department EMS crew for further medical evaluation and transport to the hospital.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like remind people enjoying our recreational opportunities in Gallatin County to realize smoky environments and warm temperatures will exhaust recreationalists faster than usual at higher elevations. Recreationalists should always stay hydrated and know personal limitations of abilities.

Photos courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.